As lieutenant governor, Cherry headed a task force that led to the creation of a plan to double the number of college graduates and was a key negotiator during the 2007 struggle to raise taxes and balance the state budget.

As lieutenant governor, Cherry could have a leg up on other Democrats in a primary.

Other Democrats who have expressed interest in a 2010 race include Flint Mayor Don Williamson, Macomb County Sheriff Mark Hackel, Wayne County Executive Robert Ficano and former Michigan State football coach and current university trustee George Perles.

Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson is expected to announce this weekend that he's considering a run for the 2010 GOP nomination.

Other possible Republican candidates include Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land, Attorney General Mike Cox, businessman David Brandon, U.S. Reps. Pete Hoekstra, Mike Rogers and Candice Miller and Oakland County Sheriff Mike Bouchard.